Mastering the Art of Relationship Repair
Conflicts, arguments, and ruptures are inevitable in any relationship, especially in intimate ones. No matter how much love exists between two people, moments of conflicting needs, disconnection, misunderstanding, and emotional pain will arise. The question is not whether conflict will take place, but rather, whether we know how to manage it and, even more critically, […]
Why Behavioral Health Is the Hidden Foundation of Your Relationship
There is a moment, familiar to almost anyone who has loved someone long enough, when you hear yourself say something and think: that wasn’t me. The sharpness in your voice. The sarcasm that landed harder than you intended. You weren’t angry at your partner, not really — you were tired, or flooded with something older […]
Navigating Perimenopause Together – How to Strengthen Your Relationship in Midlife
What to Expect in Midlife Perimenopause symptoms that signal the beginning of the menopause transition for women happen a lot earlier than many of us expect and not the way we often anticipate. The average age of menopause (the day after a woman has gone a full year without her period) is 51. Everyday after […]
Relationship Burnout
We have all heard about feeling burnt out at work, but what about in your relationship? Workplace burnout usually signals it’s time to move on and find a new job, but does the same apply to your relationship? When the connection that once felt effortless now feels distant or draining, you might be experiencing something […]
How to Prepare Yourself for a Healthy Relationship: 12 Key Steps
One of the most important questions you can ask yourself isn’t “How do I find the right person?” but rather “How do I become the person I need to be to find the right relationship?” Relationship readiness isn’t just about being single for a certain amount of time—it’s about developing the Emotional intelligence, Self-awareness, and […]
The Complex Relationship Between Dissociation and Narcissism
Narcissism and dissociation are psychological phenomena that, while distinct, are deeply interconnected. Both can emerge as adaptive responses to relational trauma or early developmental experiences. This interplay sheds light both on the challenges narcissistic individuals face in maintaining their sense of self, and the impact on their behaviors can have on others. Understanding these dynamics […]
Are You in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship?
Source: MAYA LAB / Shutterstock I am often asked, “how do I know if I am in an emotionally abusive relationship?” And I always respond with, “Well, how do you feel in your relationship?” This response can be frustrating for those individuals who are looking for a checklist—an itemized list of specific behaviors that they […]
The Secret Ingredient to a Thriving Relationship: Turning Towards Each Other
As I’m writing this, my wife asks “Do you want to come try this?” referring to a new meal she just made. Do I really need to get up and try this now? I think to myself. After all, I’m writing for The Gottman Institute. Here’s what Drs. John and Julie Gottman say about these […]